How can I get affordable psychologist therapy sessions?

Taking the first step towards improving your own mental health can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and support, the process can be smooth and empowering. If you're an Australian resident and looking for affordable psychological services, Medicare's Better Access initiative offers a great opportunity to access subsidised therapy sessions with Sage Perspectives.

Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health challenges or perhaps you are just feeling a bit "off? This blog will guide you step-by-step on how to get a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) under Medicare for therapies with a registered psychologist in Australia.

What is Better Access?

The Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative, funded by the Australian Government through Medicare, gives eligible individuals access to subsidised (i.e. cheaper!) psychological services. This includes up to 10 individual therapy sessions, and 10 group therapy sessions per year.

Sounds Great! How do I get that?

You will need to obtain a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) through a GP or psychiatrist, who will assess your needs and refer you to a registered psychologist for treatment. You can also find your own psychologist through the Australian Psychological Society - Find a Psychologist.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility for the Better Access Initiative

To take advantage of Medicare rebates for psychological services, you need to meet the eligibility criteria for the Better Access program. These sill include:

1. Australian Residency: You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

2. Medicare Enrolment: You must be enrolled in Medicare to access the subsidy.

3. Mental Health Condition: You must have a mental health condition, such as:

- Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, etc.)

- Depression (mild to moderate to severe)

- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

- OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

- Bipolar Disorder

- Eating Disorders

- Adjustment Disorders (related to life changes)

Step 2: See Your GP for a Mental Health Assessment

The next step is to visit your GP for a mental health assessment. During this appointment, your GP will discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have about your mental health. They will assess whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan is necessary and if you qualify for subsidized therapy sessions under Medicare.

Your GP will likely ask about:

- Your emotional and psychological state (e.g., feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, etc.)

- Your personal history, including any past treatments or interventions

- Your family history of mental health conditions

- Your lifestyle, work situation, and support system

Once your GP determines that you meet the criteria for a mental health condition, they will create the Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) and provide you with a referral to a registered psychologist.

If you would like to work with me, please inform your GP to make the referral to Sage Perspectives.

Step 3: Book Your Appointment with Sage Perspectives

Once you have your Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral, contact us to make an appointment. A deposit of $80 is needed to book the session, with the remaining balance payable within 24 hours of the scheduled session.

Step 4: Your Therapy, Your Goals

During your initial appointment, your psychologist will:

- Review your Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) together, discuss your symptoms, goals, and any past treatments to determine the best approach.

- Develop a personalized treatment plan to guide your therapy sessions and ensure that you achieve your mental health or lifestyle goals.

- Begin the therapeutic process by addressing your concerns, whether that’s improving your mental health. This could be improving how you feel and deal with difficult emotions, managing anxiety, overcoming past trauma, or building resilience etc.

Each session will focus on helping you develop the skills and strategies to navigate life's challenges more effectively. Good therapy allows you to feel seen, heard, and empowers you to charge of your own mental health and well-being.

Step 5: Check your progress

As you continue with therapy, your psychologist will monitor your progress and assess whether adjustments are needed to your treatment plan. After a set number of sessions (usually 6), your GP may need to review your plan to extend your therapy sessions, ensuring that you receive the full benefit of the Better Access initiative (up to 10 sessions per year).

I've run out of Medicare-rebated sessions, what do I do?

At the end of your 10 Medicare-rebated sessions, it's a good idea to review your goals and progress with your psychologist to decide whether ongoing treatment are beneficial.

How many sessions do I need before I feel better?

The therapeutic treatment process varies from person to person. Time alone, isn't the only way to judge othe impact or effectiveness of therapy, It is often more helpful to reflect on how engaging in therapy has allowed you to learn more about yourself, and empowered you to make the changes or engage in the healing you want in life.

Start Your Journey to Well being With Sage Perspectives

If you're ready to begin your journey towards better mental health and well being, read about me and connect today. You can:

• book a free 15 minute consultation.

• email your questions to connect@sagep-perspectives.com

• call and leave a voice memo at 0450 783 702.